University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The undergraduate psychology programme combines foundational theory, empirical methods and applied practice. Early coursework covers introductory psychology, research methods and statistics, and biological bases of behaviour. Core topics include developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, abnormal psychology and learning.

• Research methods and statistics for psychological science, emphasising experimental design and data analysis.
• Biopsychology/neuroscience courses addressing brain–behaviour relationships.
• Developmental, social and personality psychology courses exploring lifespan change and interpersonal processes.
• Clinical and abnormal psychology covering assessment, diagnosis and evidence-based interventions.
• Electives and advanced seminars in topics such as cognitive neuroscience, health psychology, forensic psychology, industrial–organisational psychology and perception.

Students typically choose between general BA and BS tracks depending on interests and career plans; the BS emphasises additional quantitative and natural science coursework. The curriculum encourages hands-on learning through laboratory courses, supervised research projects with faculty, internships and practicum placements in community agencies or on campus clinics. An honours or departmental distinction track is often available for students who wish to complete a thesis or an intensive research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet the University of Tennessee's general undergraduate admission standards and the department's recommended preparation. Typical successful applicants present a strong secondary-school record with coursework that includes mathematics and science; previous study of psychology is helpful but not required.

• Completion of a college-preparatory secondary curriculum or an international equivalent.
• Evidence of quantitative readiness (courses in algebra, statistics or related subjects are beneficial).
• For international applicants, proof of English proficiency and documentation of comparable academic qualifications.
• Transfer applicants should provide transcripts from post-secondary institutions; previous college coursework in psychology, statistics or research methods strengthens an application.

Admission to the major may be selective; meeting general admission standards does not guarantee entry to specific tracks or competitive experiential placements. Prospective students are encouraged to consult departmental advisors for the most current guidance on prerequisites and pathways.

Career prospects

A psychology degree from the University of Tennessee prepares graduates for a wide range of entry-level roles and for further study. Common immediate career paths include:

• Research assistant or laboratory technician in academic, medical or industry settings.
• Human resources, recruitment or organisational development roles in businesses and non-profits.
• Behavioural health technician, case manager or support worker in clinical and community settings.
• Positions in education, outreach, programme coordination and public service.
• Roles in user experience research, market research and data analysis that draw on skills in experimental design and statistics.

Many graduates proceed to postgraduate training: clinical, counselling or school psychology requires advanced degrees and licensure; research and academic careers typically require a master’s or doctoral degree. The department’s emphasis on research experience and internships helps students build competitive applications for graduate programmes and professional roles.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers an undergraduate psychology experience that combines rigorous coursework with plentiful opportunities for applied learning and research. The department hosts multiple faculty-led research groups and undergraduate-friendly laboratories where students can gain hands-on experience in experimental design, neuroimaging, behavioural assessment and community-based research.

• Strong undergraduate mentorship and structured advising to help students tailor the degree to career goals or graduate study.
• Access to practicum, internship and clinical training opportunities through campus services and local healthcare and social service providers.
• Interdisciplinary links across neuroscience, public health, education and business that allow students to combine psychology with complementary fields.
• Career services, workshops and alumni networks that support job placement and graduate-school applications.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students seeking a science-based understanding of behaviour together with practical skills in research, assessment and applied practice, all supported by the resources of a large public research university.